Wayland High School teacher-coach Larry Ward is this year’s recipient of the Wayland VFW Post No. 7581 Teacher of the Year award.

Ward was presented the plaque at Wayland Union Middle School’s annual Pearl Harbor Day program Monday to remember the events of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941 and to honor local veterans.  Middle school students interviewed local veterans at a tea prior to the ceremony.

“Coach Ward,” a reference to the fact he has served the district as a varsity football and baseball coach and a physical education teacher, “demonstrates on a daily basis his passion for teaching and working with students,” according to a prepared official statement. “He has many students return to see him and thank him for helping mold them as individuals.

“Larry Ward is a veteran teacher and stays current with the latest instructional skills within his field.  Coach Ward is always willing to assist with the development of the school and led the implementation of the R=LP2 Initiative (R=LP2 – Relationships = Learning Potential Squared) which was given to assist staff in the skills to develop relationships with students.  He is a tremendous role model for our students and faculty.  He believes in his students and demonstrates his willingness to help them achieve in life.

“Wayland Union Schools is very fortunate to have such an outstanding educator and person serving the district!”

PHOTO: Sgt. Michael Gower (left) presents Larry Ward with his teaching award while Principal Tom Cutler (right) looks on. (Photo courtesy of Laurie Zywiczynski)